On Feb. 14, 2025, Canadian based artists Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR collaborated to create the best R&B album of the year. This project features guest appearances from the artists Pimmie, Yebba, and Chino Pacas.

The expectations for this project were imposing following the disappointing release of Drake’s previous album, “For All the Dogs” (2023). Fans were also eager to see how Drake would respond after the notable feud between Drake and popular hip-hop artist, Kendrick Lamar.

However, Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR did not disappoint. 

All 21 songs featured on the album debuted in the Hot 100, most notably two of Drake’s solo songs: “GIMME A HUG” (No. 6) and “NOKIA” (No. 10).  After giving both of these songs a considerate listen, I can determine that they are worth the publicity surrounding them.

This album was able to cement Drake’s status of being able to successfully create music across multiple genres.

After the introductory song in “CN TOWER”, along with the album title being “Some Sexy Songs 4 U”, it was apparent that Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR created a smooth and soothing sound. It is fitting that this album was intentionally dropped on Valentines Day this year. 

This album successfully meshed a style of contemporary R&B and hip-hop that has not been seen since some of Drake’s earlier projects, particularly, “Take Care” (2011), and “Views” (2016). The success of Drake’s albums is often attributed to his unique ability to range across genres. 

While collaborating with PARTYNEXTDOOR, Drake took the challenge of using a contemporary R&B sound, away from his typical trap, hip-hop sound. The passionate lyrics and both artists’ vocal abilities, leads me to believe that it is the best R&B listen of the year.